🚀 Apply to the BRIDGE Program

https://oiwee.org/apply-today-the-institute-for-women-entrepreneur-excellence-bridge-program-application/?syclid=d6b182rjolcs73b3u9p0

Important: Completion of this event registration does NOT guarantee acceptance into the program. All participants must complete the official application using the link above.

BRIDGE Program: 8-Week Capital Readiness Cohort

The BRIDGE Program is an intensive 8-week cohort experience designed to prepare entrepreneurs to access capital, strengthen financial strategy, and position their ventures for sustainable growth.

Through expert-led workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and hands-on application, participants will leave investor-ready, loan-ready, and growth-ready.

Program Structure

Each Week Includes:

• 2-Hour In-Person Workshop

• 1–2 Hours of Individualized Mentoring

• Practical Assignments to Apply What You Learn

Workshops are held in person. Mentoring sessions may be virtual or in person.

Weekly Breakdown

Week 1: Program Kickoff & Financial Foundations

Focus: Building your financial base

• Program orientation and expectations

• Understanding financial statements (Profit & Loss, Balance Sheet)

• Introduction to debt vs. equity financing

• Setting financial goals aligned with capital readiness

Participants will leave with clarity on their current financial position and what investors and lenders expect to see.

Week 2: Legal Structures & Compliance

Focus: Protecting and structuring your business correctly

• Choosing the right business entity (LLC, Corporation, etc.)

• Compliance considerations for fundraising (SEC regulations, equity laws)

• Intellectual Property (IP) protection basics

Week 3: Debt Financing & Loan Readiness

Focus: Preparing for traditional funding opportunities

• SBA and traditional loan application processes

• Credit score optimization strategies

• Understanding collateral and repayment structures

Week 4: Equity Financing & Investor Pitching

Focus: Attracting and negotiating with investors

• Crafting compelling investor pitch decks

• Valuation methods (DCF, revenue multiples)

• Negotiating term sheets

Week 5: Marketing for Fundraising

Focus: Positioning your brand for capital

• Branding for investor appeal

• Communicating strong value propositions

• Leveraging traction (customers, partnerships, metrics) in fundraising

Week 6: Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management

Focus: Operating safely and strategically

• Industry-specific regulations

• Licensing and permits

• Risk mitigation strategies

Week 7: Strategic Growth & Business Planning

Focus: Aligning funding with scalable growth

• Aligning your business model with funding goals

• Scalability planning

• Finalizing investor-ready business plans

Week 8: Final Pitches & Program Wrap-Up

Focus: Presenting your capital-ready venture

• Live pitch presentations to an expert panel

• Constructive feedback session

• Next steps for accessing capital